SafePlants

Subalpine Fir (Abies lasiocarpa) and Corkbark Fir (Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica)

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the Corkbark Fir has needles, which, like those of other conifers, could be a potential irritant if ingested or come into contact with skin.
• Cones are produced by the Corkbark Fir, which may present a choking hazard or digestive upset if consumed.

Common Names

• Accepted Scientific Name: Abies lasiocarpa
• Common Names: Subalpine Fir, Rocky Mountain Fir, Alpine Fir, Corkbark Fir, Arizona Fir, Balsam, Balsam Fir, Pino Real Blanco. Alamo de la Sierra.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Not explicitly stated in the provided text.
• Kingdom: Not explicitly stated in the provided text.
• Two varieties are recognized based on morphological differences:
  • Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica - Corkbark Fir
  • Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa - Subalpine Fir
• Synonyms/Alternative Scientific Names: Abies arizonica, Pinus lasiocarpa
• The text refers to the variety Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica 'Compacta' and Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica 'Glauca Nana', indicating cultivated forms.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the western United States.
• The Corkbark Fir (Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica) occurs in Arizona and New Mexico.
• Corkbark Fir is found mixed with subalpine fir on scattered mountains in southwestern Colorado, northern, western, and southwestern New Mexico, and at higher elevations (above 8,500 feet) of the San Francisco Peaks in Arizona.
• The Corkbark Fir is a high elevation tree, typically found between 8,000 and 10,000 feet.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Corkbark Fir is similar to Subalpine Fir, with pale, nearly white, corky bark.
• The needles of the Corkbark Fir are typically 1 to 1.5 inches long.
• The Corkbark Fir resembles a Blue Spruce but has softer needles.
• The cones of the Corkbark Fir are conspicuous.
• Corkbark Fir foliage is evergreen and blue-gray.
• The Corkbark Fir is a 30-50' conifer tree with a 20' spread.
• Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica 'Compacta' is described as a low-growing, bushy, mid-sized evergreen conifer with bright blue-grey foliage.
• Describes Corkbark Fir as a strikingly slender upright.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Corkbark Fir (Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica) is less susceptible to infection by Douglas-fir dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium douglasii Engelm.).

Resources and Further Information

• Pacific Northwest Extension Publication: University of Idaho, Oregon State University, Washington State University, PNW 645.
• Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
• Dave's Garden.